ED officials blocked at PFI leader's residence in Bihar's Darbhanga

Tamil Nadu politics witnessed a major shift on February 27, 2026, as former Chief Minister O Panneerselvam officially joined the DMK. OPS, a three-time AIADMK Chief Minister, has decades of political experience and a loyal base in southern districts, particularly Theni, Bodinayakkanur, and Andipatti.This move strengthens DMK’s presence ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections, while raising questions about AIADMK-BJP cohesion. Opposition leaders, including BJP’s Vanathi Srinivasan and AIADMK spokesperson Kovai Sathyan, criticized the decision, highlighting issues of loyalty, ideology, and dynastic politics.Analysts note that even if OPS does not directly win seats, his entry could influence voter behavior, split opposition votes in key constituencies, and force parties to rethink alliances and campaign strategies. The “OPS factor” is a high-profile development that adds a new dimension to the 2026 Tamil Nadu elections.